Viticulturist - Wine Estate Management

Placements24; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 500,000 - 700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Viticulturist for a premier wine estate in Pretoria, Gauteng. You will lead vineyard management, oversee pruning, irrigation, pest control, and soil health, and optimize grape quality for winemaking.

The role requires a minimum of six years in viticulture, a relevant degree, and strong analytical and leadership skills. You will mentor staff, manage budgets, and collaborate with the winemaker to achieve the estate's wine style goals.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of viticulture experience focused on vineyard management and grape production for winemaking.
• Strong knowledge of grape varietals, soils, climate influences and their impact on wine quality.

Responsibilities

• Manage all vineyard operations from pruning to irrigation and pest control.
• Develop vineyard health programs based on soil and leaf analysis.
• Monitor grape development and determine optimal harvest times.
• Lead and train vineyard staff and supervise operations.
• Oversee trellising, irrigation networks, drainage, and infrastructure.
• Collaborate with the winemaker to meet wine style specifications.
• Manage vineyard budgets and conduct field trials for new rootstocks and practices.

Skills

Analytical skills

Team leadership

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Viticulture

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned wine estate in the **Pretoria, Gauteng** region, is seeking a highly skilled Viticulturist to lead their grape cultivation and vineyard management efforts. This position is central to producing exceptional grapes for winemaking, requiring a deep understanding of viticultural science, soil management, pest control, and the unique microclimates of the **Gauteng** terroir. The ideal candidate will be passionate about grape growing, possess strong analytical skills, and have a proven track record in optimizing vineyard health and grape quality. This role offers a prestigious opportunity to work with a leading wine producer in **South Africa**.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of vineyard operations, from pruning and canopy management to irrigation and pest control.
• Develop and implement vineyard health and nutrition programs based on detailed soil and leaf analysis.
• Monitor grape development, ripeness, and quality, determining optimal harvest times.
• Implement sustainable viticultural practices to ensure long-term vineyard viability and environmental responsibility.
• Manage vineyard staff, providing training and supervision to ensure efficient execution of tasks.
• Oversee vineyard infrastructure, including trellising systems, irrigation networks, and drainage.
• Stay updated on the latest research and technological advancements in viticulture.
• Collaborate with the winemaker to ensure grape quality meets the desired wine style specifications.
• Manage vineyard budgets and resources effectively.
• Conduct field trials to evaluate new rootstocks, clones, and vineyard management techniques.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Viticulture, Horticulture, Plant Science, or a related agricultural science field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in viticulture, with a strong emphasis on vineyard management and grape production for winemaking.
• In-depth knowledge of grape varietals, soil types, climate influences, and their impact on wine quality.
• Experience with irrigation management, nutrient management, and integrated pest and disease control in vineyards.
• Proven ability to manage and lead a vineyard team.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a keen eye for detail.
• Strong understanding of vineyard economics and budgeting.
• Familiarity with the wine industry and winemaking processes is highly desirable.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to work outdoors in various weather conditions.
• Knowledge of local **Gauteng** viticultural conditions and best practices is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and a retirement fund.
• You will have the opportunity to work on a beautiful wine estate with state-of-the-art facilities.
• Professional development and the chance to attend industry conferences will be provided.
• This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the creation of award-winning wines.
• Enjoy working in a stimulating environment surrounded by the picturesque landscapes of **Pretoria**.
• Join our client and become an integral part of the **Gauteng** wine-growing community.
• This role offers a chance for career growth in a respected wine estate.